'Askey is expected to spend this season playing behind former Michigan State sensation Ryan Miller, who signed a two-year contract with Buffalo in August. Fitzpatrick, 27, also played in Rochester last season. The Rochester native had 12 points and 83 penalty minutes in 60 games with the Americans. Also sent to Rochester were forwards Jason Botterill, Sean McMorrow and Chris Taylor, along with defenseman Radoslav Hecl. In addition, 19-year-old forward Derek Roy was returned to his junior team, the Kitchener Rangers of the Ontario Hockey League.'

However, with big decisions to make at all positions, and the veterans still trying to find their legs, the Senators had a tough time scoring on Buffalo rookie goalie Ryan Miller before he left after stopping 21-of-22 shots.

'Eric Boulton has a unique opportunity — to play NHL hockey in his hometown. The Sackville winger will play his first game in metro in about 10 years Saturday when his Buffalo Sabres meet the Ottawa Senators at the Metro Centre.'

'The Swedish defenseman has had such a brilliant camp, the Sabres might be forced to put him on the opening-night roster. Now Ruff is considering the possibility of keeping eight defensemen instead of the usual seven.'